Sports Illustrated and J.C. Penney have announced the launch of Sports Illustrated for J.C. Penney, a performance-driven lifestyle apparel line for men, women and kids exclusively designed for J.C. Penney. The collection was unveiled live at this year’s Sports Illustrated Awards at its first halftime fashion show on Dec. 7 and launched in stores and online on Jan. 6. Sports Illustrated for J.C. Penney will be available year-round and marks the first time that SI is launching a full-fledged fashion and lifestyle collection starting with The Winter Drop.
“Sports Illustrated is committed to reaching consumers in new and unique ways,” said Dana Carpenter, executive vice president, entertainment, Authentic Brands Group, owner of the Sports Illustrated brand. “Our partnership with J.C. Penney is especially exciting as it marks the first time that SI will launch a full-fledged fashion and lifestyle collection including a bold assortment of versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched for whatever the day brings.”
“We are excited to bring this collection to life and kick it off with a fun showcase at the Sports Illustrated Awards in front of legendary athletes, top musical talent and celebrity guests,” says Michelle Wlazlo, executive vice president, chief merchandising officer, J.C. Penney. “We are very proud of our design team who did a phenomenal job creating a fresh, modern active line inspired by iconic moments in sports.”
The Winter Drop is the first collection and offers an assortment of activewear that focuses on form and function. Materials include stretch woven fabrics, centurion perforated mesh, softened scuba, fleece, cotton and more.
Design features include SI branding on tracksuits, T-shirts, shorts, joggers, crop tops, sports bras, skirts and outerwear. All J.C. Penney stores will carry women’s and men’s at launch, and 300 stores will carry Plus including Big and Tall and Kids.